It’s Earth Day. This year’s theme is Invest in Our Planet.

For humanitarian and business reasons, Earth Day promotes the benefits of a green economy. Studies show there is a direct correlation between sustainable business practices and business performance.

For example, companies with strong Environment Social Governance (ESG) standards have been shown to have better profitability, stronger financials, happier employees and more resilient stock performance than competitors who have not made the same commitment. Meanwhile, according to Earth Day sponsors, U.S. clean energy jobs provide earnings more than 25 percent above the national median wage and employ more Americans than middle or elementary schools, banks, farms or real estate companies.

According to McKinsey, a sustainability strategy can substantially reduce operating costs and affect profits by up to 60 percent. Sustainability is also an attractive attribute for brand recognition and talent recruitment efforts.

To support decarbonization and other sustainability practices that rely in part on environment, health and safety interventions, industry leaders are encouraged to ensure they comply with applicable regulations and continue to seek ways to reduce exposure risk. WorkCare provides related clinical services and regulatory guidance in this area.

What Can You Do?

In recognition of Earth Day, here are some suggestions about ways you can invest in our planet.

• Reduce consumption of single-use products containing plastic. When you can, select products with earth-friendly packaging and reusable bags, bottles, utensils and similar items.
• Use recycle bins at work, at home and when picking up recyclable trash in your community.
• Compost leftover fruits and vegetables. Use organic material in planters or your garden. Start a seedling in half an eggshell. Use coffee grounds as nutrients.
• Park your vehicle. Walk, ride a bike or take public transportation when you can.
• Become a Global Earth Challenge™ citizen scientist to support ongoing data collection and research on topics such as air quality, plastics, food security and changes in bee populations.
• Use natural light and solar power. When not in use, unplug appliances like microwaves and air conditioners. Install “smart” thermostats. Reduce unnecessary water consumption. Buy gently used clothes.
• Limit the use of paper. With a laptop or smartphone at your fingertips, it’s easy to use QR codes, apps, online banking, secure data storage and similar paperless options.

To learn about what it means to buy green. Refer to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Ecolabel programs.